Candle
The candle flame symbolizes fire, a universal sign of purification. It shines with the light of kindness and spirit. It represents the Logos, the Light of the World, brought to earth by Jesus Christ, which is why believers light candles before praying.
At Christmas, the candle flame brightens the longest night of the year. The head of the household walks through the home with it, including the stable, to drive away dark, ominous forces.
Folk belief says a candle burns for each of us in the afterlife, glowing as long as we live.
Candles accompany many rituals throughout life: at baptisms, weddings, and funerals. They are part of exorcisms too, so candles are kept burning to repel evil forces.
Altar
Originally, altars were places for blood sacrifices. Later, they became tomb monuments where offerings were made to revered ancestors.
Christians continue this tradition by keeping saints’ relics in small altar niches. At one time, altars also served as tables for food and drink. This custom lives on in the Christian Eucharist and communion ceremonies.
The altar is seen as Jesus Christ’s throne and symbolizes Christ himself. Positioned centrally in churches, it highlights the importance of His redemptive sacrifice. Christ is both the sacrifice made for us and our spiritual nourishment. The altar is the Lord’s table where we’re all guests—His manger and tomb.
Blessing
A blessing offers divine protection and support. It channels a powerful, uplifting energy that can transform the personality and life of the recipient.
It becomes especially meaningful when it carries a promise deeply desired from the heart.
In Japan, parents take their children to a shrine every year on Children’s Day to receive blessings.
During holidays like Christmas, people enter churches with hopeful hearts, and the blessings they receive fill their souls with light and motivation.
Church
A church is a place dedicated to one or more gods. The word comes from Latin, meaning “open or consecrated place,” where statues or symbols of deities are kept.
In ancient Egypt, the earliest temples were royal burial chapels.
At Christmas, churches display large, beautifully decorated Christmas trees.
The tree’s green color represents eternal life and the unchanging flow of divine love. Its lights symbolize Christ and hope.
Madonna
The veneration of Madonnas began as a tribute to Mother Earth. In the Middle Ages, Mary, mother of Jesus Christ, was honored above all saints. May was considered the first month of summer and dedicated to Mary.
In tarot, the High Priestess card represents a woman gifted with the power of prophecy and intuitive awareness.
She embodies learning, knowledge, spiritual growth, enlightenment, and wisdom. She channels occult forces for positive purposes.
Dreams about her signal that female influence will bring change into our lives.
